Chilly and stunning is this day after Christmas, enough sun to make the snow sparkle all around, cold enough to keep the boughs bedecked in icy powder, just beautiful. I hope that all had a good Christmas with old traditions and some new, perhaps among friends and family, or perhaps in quiet reflection, whatever the case, may it have been pleasant. Despite asking here and there, there are not many events to tell you about, we have entered a time of quiet, or at least on the island itself, nobody really minds that, and if you wish to cross the bridge, there are still lights at the Botanical Gardens, and all around town, meals to be had at restaurants, specialties to be picked up at the gourmet store, and sales at the shops, but my focus remains here.

While the next round of holiday hours are coming to the Southport Memorial Library on Thursday, Jan. 1, they will be closed, they will be open and have the coffee table going during their regular Tuesday hours, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. If you have never sat for a bit, consider it, the coffee is good and hot, and there is normally a sweet treat to go alongside your mug and the conversation. Those that have attended before normally arrive around 10 a.m., come and join them. While there you can still see the photography exhibit of work by Robert Mitchell and of course check out books, DVDs, audio books, and CDs. There is a wonderful children’s room with books and toys for imaginative play, as well as a cozy reading nook for any little ones that might be visiting for the holidays, or live here year round.

That will give you a destination for Tuesday, and on Wednesday, Dec. 31, you can join the Community Knitting Group from 4 to 6 p.m. in the dining room at the Southport General Store. They welcome both pros and novices, and all types of fiber arts, a welcoming group. This is free, just bring your own project and unwind and enjoy the company.

That brings us to Thursday, Jan. 1, New Year’s Day, hard to believe, but we have made it to the end of one year and are ready to enter this new one, what better way than a cleansing dip, or plunge into the amazing coastal waters. This year’s YMCA Polar Plunge will take place on New Year’s Day beginning at 11 a.m. at Hendrick’s Head Beach. There will be a kiddie pool set up for family fun and you can choose your level of “plunge.” If you just wish to dip your fingers or toes, that if just fine, as is a full plunge, it is up to you. There is no registration fee, donations are encouraged and all proceeds will support the Boothbay Region YMCA Dolphin swim team which includes 28 swimmers from ages 6 to 16. If you participate you will get a mug and some other fun things. There will be warm beverages and snacks available after the plunge. The Little Dippers are this year’s honorees, so come and show your support for them, and the swim team, as a cheering spectator, or participant, there will be plenty of fun to go around. Parking is limited at the beach, but you can also park at the General Store, or the Southport School and carpool, or take the Y mini-bus that will be warm and ready to shuttle plungers to and from the beach. See you there for that event.

The last bit of business is just a reminder that Southport municipal candidates have until Jan. 2 to return nomination papers for the March 2 elections. Papers for selectmen, Boothbay Region Water District trustee and two school committee seats are available. Candidates need a minimum of 50 signatures to qualify for the ballot, and should be returned to the Town Clerk Donna Climo.

However you choose to bring in the New Year, quietly or with a bang, may the days that follow be filled with hope, health and happiness, and May Peace Be With You All.